There's no denying that Phuket is a paradise. Its stunning coastlines and natural wonders almost make it seem like it's from another world. When anyone mentions Phuket, a relaxing beach with white sands, crystal blue waters, luscious greeneries around, and even a coconut or two come to mind. Now, those is all well and good but for a lot of travelers out there, they're are not enough to keep them impressed. Fortunately, the island also offers a ton of other great experiences, many of which many won't soon forget. Just one day alone would be enough for anyone to make new memories in Phuket.
Explore Phuket’s Old Town
With its fusion of Western influences and Eastern styles, Phuket's Old Town is truly a sight to behold. It's mostly European cities that have 'Old Town' or 'Old Districts' wherein they preserved most of the aesthetic that has been around for decades and centuries. Here in Phuket. the city's 'Old Town' district, one of the more
popular neighborhoods here, evokes that same sort of nostalgia. The old-world Sino-Portuguese charm will resonate with those who want to see the history and heritage of Phuket. The pastel-hued houses and old-school Chinese temples are truly novel in a place known for beaches and forests.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
See The Big Buddha
Thailand is known for its monumental Buddhas. There's the famous reclining Gilded Buddha in
Bangkok, the most famous of its kind in the capital city. And here in Phuket, there's the astounding giant white Buddha perched atop one of the Nakkerd hills. Located between the Kata and Chalong districts, you'll see this white jade marble statue from a mile away. Its height is a good 45 meters tall and its stately image will leave you spellbound. Do note that you'll have to climb up a steep flight of stairs to see the white Buddha in all its glory. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Visit The Temples
Just like Bangkok, Phuket is also home to a good number of Buddhist temples, each more beautiful than the next. There's Wat Chalong, for instance, which is the largest and most famous temple on the island. Its eye-popping color scheme of red, white, and gold is quite the sight to behold, as are the life-sized wax statues of Luang Pho Chaem and Luang Pho Chuang, the two historic monks to which the temple is dedicated. Wat Phra Thong in the Thalang District, on the other hand, houses a half-broken Buddha statue with a fascinating myth. You'll have to visit the temple yourself in order to learn what the myth is all about.
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Pekka Oilink
Shop for Local Delicacies
It may not seem like it but here in Phuket, shopping is a way of life. And it's not the luxury kind of shopping where you focus on designer brands either. On this beautiful island, it's all about shopping for local delicacies. All throughout Phuket, you'll find many open, wet, and night markets made up of street food stalls worth your while. They offer some of the most exotic dishes that you won't anywhere else, not to mention Thai cuisine staples that only taste authentic if they can from a street stall.
Phuket's top hotspots are all well and good, but if you truly want to taste the real Phuket, these are the place to go!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Go Hiking in Karon
When one speaks of Phuket, swimming at the beach and island-hopping are often what immediately come to mind. But did you know that you can go hiking on this island too? There's a famous spot in Phuket that's worth exerting all the effort to reach: the Karon Viewpoint. In the beautiful area of Karon, located just south of Kata Noi Beach, this famous viewpoint offers a view of Phuket unlike any other. You'll truly feel like you're on top of the world once you get to this spot; as if you're looking down from heaven yourself.
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ User-Oberpepe
Go Island-Hopping
Arguably the best part about Phuket is that it's near a ton of other smaller islands within the Thai archipelago. And since traveling by ferry or boat is practically part of
Phuket's public transport, you can easily go island-hopping in a day and get back to your home or accommodations on the main island by night. When others say that Phuket is the ultimate paradise, they're talking about the beaches on these very same islands. Uninhabited and largely untouched, these shorelines have remained the same for hundreds, possibly even thousands of years. Their natural beauty is simply unmatched.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Have Fun at The Beach
Speaking of beaches, you can't have a list of the best ways to spend a day in Phuket without mentioning going to the beach. And since Phuket is a well-known treasure trove of
stunning shorelines, it's only natural that you can spend an entire day on one and not get bored. Beyond their white sands and turquoise seas, these are coastlines that get the best sun. It's even safe to say that the beaches in Phuket are probably sunnier than those in the Mediterranean. Is it any wonder why the island such a you tourist destination?
Source: Wikimedia Commons
More than just its picturesque beauty and natural appeal, Phuket is also a truly exciting place. From the outside, it seems like you can only do so little here. But when you actually go to the island, you'll find that there are lots more to do!
What's a great way to end your day in Phuket, retreating to your
luxury home here to rest, relax, and recharge.
